Joy Has Come: Remembering Christ, Serving Others, and Ending the Year in Worship

December is a season filled with memory, meaning, and movement—but Advent calls us to remember why we celebrate. At the center of this season is not tradition or routine, but the story of Christ—God stepping into the world to bring hope, joy, and redemption.

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
— Luke 2:11

The birth of Jesus reminds us that joy does not come from perfect circumstances. It comes from God’s presence. Advent joy is steady, sustaining, and rooted in promise.

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10
“In Your presence there is fullness of joy.” — Psalm 16:11

Celebrating the Story of Christ Through Our Youth
One of the most powerful ways we tell the story of Christ is by passing it to the next generation. This month, we invite our church family and community to experience the Christmas story through the voices and gifts of our youth.
On Wednesday, December 17 at 6:30 PM, join us for our Christmas Youth Presentation: Emmanuel – A Modern Nativity for Today, featuring the 412 Youth Academy and the Drama Ministry.

This presentation brings the timeless message of Christ’s birth into today’s world—reminding us that Emmanuel still means “God with us.”
Please note: There will be no Bible Study this evening. Dinner will be served promptly at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall, followed by the presentation.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” — Isaiah 9:2

Spreading Joy Beyond the Sanctuary
Advent joy is not meant to stay inside the church walls. It moves outward in love, compassion, and service.

As part of our December outreach, we are collecting Thinking of You or Holiday Cards for those on our Prayer List. These cards are a simple but meaningful way to remind others that they are seen, loved, and prayed for during this season.
Cards may be dropped off in the Administration Area between now and Sunday, December 21. Please include the recipient’s name on each card. All cards will be mailed collectively. For more information, contact the church office.

“Encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Serving with Purpose in the Year Ahead
As we prepare our hearts for the new year, we are also preparing to serve. Orchard Knob continues its partnership with the Chatt Foundation, where our church family serves lunch multiple times throughout the year.
We are seeking additional volunteers for 2026 who are interested in serving just a few days a year. Our service schedule includes:

• The Thursday before the 4th Sunday
• The 4th Sunday of each month
• 5th Sundays when applicable

If you are interested, please contact Sister Laverne McMutuary at 574-520-8510.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23

Ending the Year in Worship: New Year’s Eve Service
We will close the year together in worship on Wednesday, December 31 at 12:00 Noon EST with a special New Year’s Eve Worship Service.
This service is a sacred pause—a time to reflect on God’s faithfulness, release what no longer serves us, and step into the new year anchored in faith and hope.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.”
— Isaiah 43:18–19

Come ready to praise, pray, and begin the new year surrounded by faith and fellowship.
A December Invitation
This Advent season, let us remember the miracle of Christ’s birth, reflect His joy through service, and move into the new year with confidence in God’s promises.

Joy has come. Christ is with us. And the story continues—through us.